An investigation into normative responses for the upper limb neurodynamic test with radial nerve bias

Abstract

This study assessed the normative responses to the upper limb neurodynamic test with radial nerve bias (ULNT2b) without the use of subject fixation and stabilisation devices, on 100 asymptomatic participants recruited from the local community. Range of motion shoulder abduction measurements were taken in a neutral limb position and in the ULNT2b test position, sensory responses evoked by the ULNT2b were recorded.

The ULNT2b was found to repeatedly elicit the sensory responses of stretching in the lateral forearm (62 %) and posterior wrist (24 %). Significantly less glenohumeral abduction was seen in the ULNT2b test position (T-ROM; 62.2° ± 16.5°) than in the pre-test neutral limb position (P-ROM; 77.9° ± 13.2°) (mean difference = 15.7o ± 13.2, p < 0.001 at 95 % confidence). Participant characteristics did not influence observed responses, suggesting that the ULNT2b has scope for use on diverse clinical practice populations. The results of this study can be used to enhance understanding of normative responses to the ULNT2b against which responses elicited in a clinical setting can be compared.